The takeoff view from Dunedin's Otago Peninsula and Pacific coastline is more visually distinctive than the landing approach. However, if landing conditions favor westward approaches, left becomes competitive due to Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf. Right edges ahead for the full journey.
Flown DUD to AKL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Dunedin to Auckland is 660 miles (1,062 km), a flight of about 1 hour 50 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Tasman Sea region and passes over the Waikato region's farmland and river systems. At cruise altitude (around 25,000 feet), the Kaingaroa Forest and central North Island plateau become visible as the aircraft approaches Auckland from the south. The Coromandel Peninsula may be glimpsed to the east depending on exact routing. No major mountain ranges are prominently visible at cruise altitude on this route, but the transition from South Island's rugged terrain to North Island's gentler, forested landscape is gradual.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DUD
RIGHTDunedin's runways (05/23) align north-south. Climbing right (eastward) gives immediate views of the Otago Peninsula's rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Left would show inland farmland and the less dramatic western hills.
Landing at AKL
LEFTAuckland's primary runways (03L/03R and 21L/21R) depend on wind, but approach from the south typically uses 03 runways. Descending left (westward) on approach reveals the Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto Island, and the Hauraki Gulf's island-dotted waters. Right would show inland suburbs and less dramatic terrain.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Dunedin (DUD) to Auckland International (AKL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Dunedin to Auckland. The takeoff view from Dunedin's Otago Peninsula and Pacific coastline is more visually distinctive than the landing approach. However, if landing conditions favor westward approaches, left becomes competitive due to Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf. Right edges ahead for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Dunedin in Dunedin?
During takeoff from Dunedin (DUD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Dunedin's runways (05/23) align north-south. Climbing right (eastward) gives immediate views of the Otago Peninsula's rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Left would show inland farmland and the less dramatic western hills. Notable sights include: Otago Peninsula (distinctive hook-shaped landform), Pacific Ocean coastline, Dunedin city sprawl below, Taieri River valley to the west.
What can I see when landing at Auckland International in Auckland?
When landing at Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Auckland's primary runways (03L/03R and 21L/21R) depend on wind, but approach from the south typically uses 03 runways. Descending left (westward) on approach reveals the Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto Island, and the Hauraki Gulf's island-dotted waters. Right would show inland suburbs and less dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: Rangitoto Island (distinctive volcanic cone), Waitemata Harbour, Hauraki Gulf with scattered islands, Auckland's CBD and waterfront.
How long is the flight from Dunedin to Auckland?
The flight from Dunedin (DUD) to Auckland International (AKL) takes about 1 hour 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 660 miles (1,062 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Dunedin to Auckland flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Tasman Sea region and passes over the Waikato region's farmland and river systems. At cruise altitude (around 25,000 feet), the Kaingaroa Forest and central North Island plateau become visible as the aircraft approaches Auckland from the south. The Coromandel Peninsula may be glimpsed to the east depending on exact routing. No major mountain ranges are prominently visible at cruise altitude on this route, but the transition from South Island's rugged terrain to North Island's gentler, forested landscape is gradual.